University of Algarve: Technical Visit Strengthens International Connections in Food
A Certifee consultant visited the University of Algarve to understand its Food Technology master’s program and identify possible technical synergies.
Neste artigo
On March 20, Camila Veiga, a consultant on the Certifee team, carried out a technical visit to the University of Algarve in Portugal. The objective was to learn about the academic structure of the master’s program in Food Technology and identify possible synergies with the activities developed by the company in Brazil.
The initiative reinforces Certifee’s commitment to the continuous pursuit of knowledge, innovation and connection with internationally recognized institutions, strengthening its work in consulting, auditing and training in food quality and safety.
Academic structure with industry application
Recognized in the Algarve region, the University of Algarve has a structure distributed across three main campuses: Gambelas, Penha and Portimão, covering different fields of knowledge.
During the visit, two structures stood out in particular:
the Enology Laboratory, which supports both academic development and technical assistance for small local producers, with a focus on quality control
a pilot plant, equipped with intermediate-scale technology, allowing the simulation of industrial processes and the development of applied studies
These structures show strong integration between teaching, research and practical application, an essential point for preparing professionals for the challenges of the food industry.
Advanced training in Food Technology
The master’s program in Food Technology has a two-year structure:
the first year focused on theoretical training
the second year dedicated to scientific research
With evening classes and a fully in-person format, the program allows students to balance academic work with professional activities, while requiring immersion in the local academic context.
The program is aimed at professionals with backgrounds in areas such as food engineering and food technology, as well as industry professionals seeking deeper knowledge in topics such as:
food quality and safety
technological innovation
product development
sustainability in food production
Food safety in Portugal: rigor and practical application
One of the main points observed during the visit was the high level of requirements related to food safety in Portugal.
Unlike other contexts, regulations are not limited to industry. They are also widely applied to establishments that serve consumers directly, such as restaurants and cafés.
In these cases, implementation of the HACCP system is mandatory, as is strict compliance with control measures and continuous monitoring.
ASAE plays an important role in this scenario, carrying out active inspection and holding authority to close establishments in case of nonconformity.
This model shows not only the existence of standards, but also their effective application, contributing to stronger food safety in the country.
Institutional connections and knowledge exchange
The visit was conducted with the support of Professors Jessie Melo, Isabel Ratão and Patrícia Nunes, who presented the university’s structure, explained how the program works and shared perspectives on the food sector in Portugal.
The reception and exchange of experiences reinforced the importance of dialogue between institutions and companies, promoting knowledge exchange and building future opportunities for collaboration.
Positioning and strategic vision
Certifee’s participation in initiatives like this reflects its focus on the internationalization of knowledge and the search for global references, while continuing to value the technical capability already consolidated in Brazil.
The experience also showed that, although there are differences in the practical application of legislation, especially regarding the rigor of enforcement, Brazil has highly qualified educational institutions and professionals in the food sector.
Commitment to continuous evolution
By promoting connections with international institutions and following different operating models, Certifee reinforces its commitment to:
continuously updating its services
incorporating global good practices
strengthening the culture of food quality and safety
Initiatives like this directly contribute to the evolution of the sector, broadening perspectives and consolidating work increasingly aligned with the requirements of the global market.
